For Volunteers Week, Alice Hulme (pictured left) shares her story of volunteering with Bristol Women’s Voice.
“I’ve volunteered with Bristol Women’s Voice (BWV) for the past two years with the International Women’s Day (IWD) Steering Group.
I first came across BWV doing some research online about women’s activism in the city. I work in a male-dominated business and had recently received a promotion to the board of directors, as the only woman. This, more than ever, empowered me to find role models outside of work and broaden my skills to be able to positively impact change.
After applying to be a volunteer, the steering group for the flagship IWD event had just started so I joined following a friendly induction.
It was clear from the start that I would be able to pursue an area I was passionate about and for the 2023 IWD event I organised two panel discussions: women in leadership and women in tech. I then chaired both panels. This was completely new for me and I’d never organised panels and chaired a discussion. BWV was there to support me, provide guidance and support. But most importantly pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the chance to share the messages that were important to me.
I continued to volunteer and following taking feedback from the day, we were ready to plan 2024. In this year’s event Katy gave me the opportunity to Chair a panel with one sitting MP, and a local councillor which was an amazing opportunity. I also worked to support another volunteer to bring together a women in tech panel. I also secured some sponsorship for the event from local businesses.
The opportunities I’ve had with BWV have allowed me to grow professionally while also developing my skillset and building connections across the city.
Katy also introduced me to the Bristol Women in Business Charter which my workplace has become a signatory for to show commitment to increasing women in leadership roles. This has helped to shape our own employee-led group mentoring future female leaders in the business.”
Thank you Alice!
